macOS 15.4 is about to add a feature that we’ve enjoyed on iPhone and iPad for some time. Proximity pairing, where we use the camera from your old iPhone or iPad to set up your new device is coming to the Mac.
The source code suggesting this change is coming was found by 9to5Mac that says macOS has technically supported this feature via Mobile Device management (MDM) tools.
The iOS/iPadOS method relies on using your new device to scan a moving pattern of dots on the old device. Once an iCloud account is verified, data is moved from the old device to the new, apps are installed and a little while later the new device is ready to use.
For a Mac, this process is not always possible. Not every Mac has a camera. But if an iPhone is used as an intermediary to scan a code on the old device and it’s then connected to the new device it can transfer information needed to conduct the set up of the new device.
Apple has made the process of moving from an old device to a new one simple through the use of Time Machine. And backup tools like SuperDuper and CarbonCopyCloner also make it easy.
Proximity pairing adds another way for Mac owners to seamlessly upgrade their devices.
Anthony is the founder of Australian Apple News. He is a long-time Apple user and former editor of Australian Macworld. He has contributed to many technology magazines and newspapers as well as appearing regularly on radio and occasionally on TV.